The effect of certain B-vitamin supplements on the survival and performance of calves
fed a high-carbohydrate, low-fat diet

Authors

N. J. BenevengaMagnar Ronning

Authors Affiliations

N. J. Benevenga was a Graduate Assistant in the Department of Animal Husbandry at Davis; Magnar Ronning was Associate Professor of Animal Husbandry and Associate Animal Husbandman in the Experiment Station, Davis.

Publication Information

Abstract

When milk-replacer diets are being compounded for calves, a problem may be encountered
with regard to the source of energy. Foreign fats are not always tolerated well and
carbohydrates sometimes present certain limitations.

This report stems from an experience in which dextrose was used as the main source
of energy in a diet composed basically of nonfat milk solids. Neuromuscular abnormalities
similar to symptoms of thiamine deficiency developed; and as more cases were observed,
it became apparent that biotin deficiency symptoms also were probably involved. Further
work indicated that neither thiamine nor biotin alone, nor the two in combination,
were effective in preventing the syndrome. Finally it was found that an increased
intake of several B-vitamins in combination with relatively massive increases of thiamine
and biotin offered good protection against development of the symptoms, and was reasonably
effective in eliminating the condition once it had developed.

This paper presents detailed descriptions of the characteristic deficiency syndrome
and a summary of results of certain treatments that were instituted in attempts to
prevent or cure the abnormal condition with B-vitamin therapy.